JAPAN 日本Under "JAPAN," images are organized according to theme (people, festivals, etc.). Other images are organized under the prefecture and city, town, or village. Or click on "Search" above to search images with key words. Image licensing available.

Japan has about 15 million manholes, mainly for sewage. Every city and town in Japan have their own uniquely-designed manholes. Some are colorfully painted. Three million manholes are worn out and need to be replaced. Those can be quite slippery so be careful.

Pictures of fans attending the 2002 World Cup soccer games in Osaka, Kobe, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa (Brazil vs. England on on June 21, 2002), and the final match at International Stadium in Yokohama on June 30, 2002 (Brazil vs. Germany). Photos taken by Kjeld Duits, Mariko Hinaga, and Philbert Ono.

Built in 1985, the Ryogoku Kokugikan is a modern, spacious, and well-designed sumo arena where three of the six Grand Sumo tournaments are held. In January, May, and September, Tokyoites can see sumo live and enjoy numerous things inside the facility.

Photos of a Grand Sumo Tournament. These pictures aim to give you an idea of what you see at a real sumo tournament at the Kokugikan sumo arena in Tokyo. The colorful ring-entering ceremony by the top two divisions (Makunouchi and Juryo) as well as by the yokozuna. See a few sumo matches fought by foreign wrestlers as well.

On Oct. 17, 2008, the Ozumo Maibara Basho exhibition sumo tournament was held at Green Park Santo in Maibara, Shiga Prefecture. Most of the famous sumo stars came and showed their stuff including Yokozuna Hakuho; Ozeki Chiyotaikai, Kotomitsuki, Kotooshu, and Kaio; Takamisakari, Baruto, Kisenosato, and Homasho. It has been nine years since they came to Shiga for an exhibition tournament.

Yokozuna Musashimaru, the last of the Hawaiian sumo greats, held his retirement ceremony on Oct. 2, 2004 at the Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo arena in Tokyo. His departure marks the end of the Hawaii's Golden Age of Sumo. For the first time since 1968, sumo in Japan is without a wrestler from Hawaii. Also see the video at YouTube.

Sumo practice at the Kokugikan sumo arena in Ryogoku, Tokyo. The practice, held before the Yokozuna Deliberation Council, was open to the public on April 29, 2005. Surprisingly, about 8,000 people attended, taking advantage of free admission. Also see the video at YouTube.

One of the enduring symbols of Japan, the geisha and maiko were very popular subjects for tourist postcards at the turn of the 20th century. Here are some postcards showing geisha (called geiko in Kyoto) and maiko (apprentice geisha). Includes postcards of my favorite girl, the Laughing Geisha.

You've heard it before: "The most important bilateral relationship in the world." (According to the late US Ambassador to Japan, Mike Mansfield.) Well, for me it's very important because of my dual Japanese and American heritage. With these postcards, I've traced some of the history of Japan-U.S. relations starting with Commodore Mathew Perry's landing in 1853.

Other vintage postcards in my collection include Japanese children and scenic views. Children were another facet of Japan that fascinated early foreign tourists in Japan. Children dressed in kimono and those babysitting their younger siblings were the most popular. Most of the scenic cards are oil-painted. (If I could paint, I would rather be a painter than a photographer.)

The Handa Dashi Matsuri is a huge festival of 31 ornate wooden floats held only once every five years (in years ending in "2" and "7") on the first weekend in Oct. It is a non-religious festival that started in 1979. It has been held only eight times since 1979. The floats are first parked and paraded on the streets near JR Handa Station before they all proceed and gather at a large parking lot. Handa is not far from Nagoya and Toyota. The headquarters of Mizkan vinegar is in Handa. These photos were taken on Oct. 7, 2017. Official website: http://handa-dashimatsuri.jp/

Konomiya Shrine holds the Hadaka (Naked or Nude) Festival in early March, or Jan. 13 of the lunar calendar. Men in loincloths parade around the streets until they reach the shrine. A Sacred Man (Shin-otoko) also appears in the shrine and the men try to touch him before he slips into the shrine's window. The festival's real name is Naoi-shinji 儺追神事 which is a rite to dispel bad luck.

Perched on a mountain on the bank of Kiso River, Inuyama Castle is one of four castles in Japan designated as a National Treasure. First built in 1537, it is Japan's oldest surviving castle. It is also the only privately owned castle in Japan.

Shrine famous for worshipping a rock shaped like the female sexual organ. It also holds the Honen Matsuri for a good harvest and fertility on the Sunday before March 15. It is the female counterpart to Tagata Shrine which worships the phallus in neighboring Komaki. The shrine is also noted for weeping plum blossoms.

The Honen-sai or Honen (Hounen) Matsuri is held by Tagata Jinja on March 15 to pray for an abundant harvest. "Honen" literally means "Year of abudant harvest." Since a giant penis is used as an offering, it is popularly called the "penis festival." Also see the video at YouTube.

Shrine famous for numerous phallic objects used as offerings to the gods. The 1500-year-old shrine worships a deity called Tamahime-no-Mikoto who was a daughter of a powerful local lord from the 5th century. The shrine is near Tagata Jinja-mae Station on the Meitetsu Railways' Komaki Line. From Shin-Nagoya Station or Shin-Gifu Station, go to Inuyama Station and transfer to the Komaki Line.

Sponsored by the Toyota Automobile Museum, the Classic Car Festival is held every spring in Nagakute. About 150 classic cars of various makes paraded through the city and were displayed at the Aichi Expo 2005 Park. Toyota Automobile Museum also has a world-class collection of classic cars, not just Toyota. From JR Nagoya Station, it takes about 45 min. to the museum by subway and train. First take the Higashiyama subway line to Fujigaoka. Then transfer to the Linomo Line. Get off at Geidai-dori Station. Museum is a short walk away.

The Aichi Expo 2005 was held from March 25 to September 25, 2005 at three locations in Aichi Prefecture. The main site was at Nagakute where these photos were taken. The theme of the Expo was "Nature's Wisdom," with Japanese and international pavilions showing nature, ecology, and Earth-related exhibits. Over 22 million people visited the expo which was quite crowded at times.

Nagoya Castle is Nagoya's most visible attraction and symbol of the city. It is most closely associated with the Tokugawa after Ieyasu decided to rebuild it in the early 1600s. It was the base of the Tokugawa's Owari branch. The main castle tower was paired with a smaller tower and the Hommaru Palace and Ninomaru Palace were built nearby. Sadly, the original buildings were destroyed by World War II firebombings by the US. The main castle tower was reconstructed with ferro-concrete in 1959. From 2009 to 2018, they reconstructed the magnificent Hommaru Palace using traditional materials and methods of construction.

Atsuta Jingu is one of Japan's most important shrines dedicated to Atsuta-no-Ookami or Amaterasu-Oomikami, represented by the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-tsurugi which is one of the three sacred treasures of the Imperial family. It ranks second behind Grand Shrines of Ise in Mie Prefecture. On Jan. 1, 2008, I visited this shrine along with huge crowds.

If you like the Tokaido shinkansen old and new or the Maglev trains, visiting this railway museum on the outskirts of Nagoya is a must. See 39 full-size railway cars, train simulators, and a railway model diorama. Operated by JR Central in Nagoya, the museum opened in March 2011. Near Kinjo-futo Station on the Aonami Line that starts from Nagoya Station.

Held during Aug. 2-7, this matsuri features Nebuta floats which are giant, wire-frame, paper lanterns shaped in various legendary and macho characters such as samurai warriors, demons, and gods. They are dramatically illuminated from the inside and paraded on the streets at night.

Originally built in 1611 by Lord Tsugaru Nobuhira, Hirosaki Castle's current donjon was rebuilt in 1810. Although the structure is small, it is a well-known architectural work. In 1895, the castle was made public and the castle park has become one of Japan's famous sites for cherry blossoms.

Chiba Castle is within Inohana Park 亥鼻公園 which is noted for cherry blossoms in spring. The reconstructed castle tower is a Folk Museum tracing the history of the Chiba clan who ruled Chiba during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Chiba Marine Stadium (QVC Marine Field) is the home field for the Chiba Lotte Marines pro baseball team. Saw a game between the Marines and Nippon Ham Fighters on Oct. 5, 2015. Near JR Kaihin-Makuhari Station on the Keiyo Line, about 40 min. from Tokyo Station.

Nakayama Hokekyoji Temple was established by Nichiren, therefore it belongs to the Nichiren Buddhist sect. From mid Feb. to March 3, it holds the Hina Matsuri Girl's Day festival with displays of ornate dolls. Short walk from JR Shimousa-Nakayama Station on JR Sobu Line or from Keisei-Nakayama Station on Keisei Main Line. Address: 千葉県市川市中山2-10-1

Also called the Hadaka (Nude) Matsuri, this annual festival is held by Tamasaki Shrine near Kazusa-Ichinomiya Station (JR Sotobo Line). On Sept. 13, 2009 (Sun.), the main festival day, portable shrines from twelve shrines (junisha) in the same area are paraded and rushed to the beach with hundreds of people surrounding each one. They run with the portable shrine. At the beach in ankle-deep water, they jostle and toss the mikoshi in the air. In the evening, they return to town near the train station and parade the shrines again. Also see my video at YouTube.

This annual festival is held in Ohara on Sept. 23-24, climaxing with many people carrying portable shrines into the ocean. Portable shrines from 18 shrines in the area join in the festival. "Hadaka" means nude, but no one is nude. They go into the ocean only on the 23rd. These photos were taken on Sept. 23, 2004. Also see the video at YouTube.

Festival of ornate floats paraded around Sawara in Oct. Floats (called dashi) are about 7 meters high and weigh 3 to 4 tons. They have intricate wood carvings and a large doll depicting a historical or legendary Japanese figure. Each float is from a neighborhood in Sawara. Most of the floats and dolls were made in the late 19th century or early 20th century.

Dating back 300 years, the festival is held for three days in July (10 floats) and Oct. (14 floats). The float pullers also dance and the main highlight is when they turn the float a few times. The festival is a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. In fall 2016, it will be one of the 33 Yama, Hoko, and Yatai float festivals in Japan to be inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Held near JR Sawara Station (JR Narita Line) and along Ono River's traditional townscape.

Umihotaru is an artificial island serving as a highway rest area and tourist attraction in the middle of Tokyo Bay. It's part of the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line highway traversing Tokyo Bay above and below the ocean to connect Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture and Kisarazu, Chiba Prefecture. Umihotaru is built atop the entrance/exit of the undersea tunnel going to Kawasaki.

After her first Space Shuttle flight in April 2010, astronaut Naoko Yamazaki returned to Japan briefly and included a visit to her hometown of Matsudo, Chiba where she had a homecoming parade on May 22, 2010. NASA photos of her training and STS-131 shuttle mission are also included. Also see my video at YouTube.

Built in 1884, Tojotei was the residence of Tokugawa Akitake (1853-1910), brother of the last Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu. Akitake was supposed to be the next shogun after Yoshinobu, but the Tokugawa reign and Edo Period ended before his time. Akitake only became the last daimyo of the Mito Clan in Ibaraki. He retired at age 30 and lived the rest of his life at Tojotei, a spacious, Japanese-style residence on a hilltop. Tojotei is within the garden-like Tojogaoka History Park that was part of Akitake's estate. It now has the Tojo History Museum displaying Akitake artifacts, plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, lots of azalea, and fall foliage. Short walk from Matsudo Station. Park hours are 9 am to 5 pm, closed Mon. (open if a national holiday) Free admission. Small admission charged by Tojotei and the museum.

Shinshoji temple (Narita-san), Japan's most famous temple for Setsubun Festival was jam-packed on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013. Most people came to see the celebrities throwing the beans for mamemaki. They included sumo wrestlers Yokozuna Hakuho, Ozeki Kisenosato, Baruto, and Okinoumi. Also Haruka Ayase, Ayame Goriki, Kotaro Koizumi and other stars of the current NHK Taiga Drama, "Yae no Sakura." Also see my video at YouTube.
The first time I saw this was on Feb. 3, 2001. Celebrities then included Yokozuna Musashimaru and actresses Riho Makise.

Narita-san Shinshoji Temple is Chiba Prefecture's most famous temple. Belonging to the Shingon Buddhist Sect, it holds many of Narita's major festivals such as Setsubun. Four buildings are also Important Cultural Properties. It also has a large Japanese garden, including cherry blossoms. A short walk from JR and Keisei Narita Stations.

The biggest taiko drum festival in the Kanto region is held annually in April. Various taiko drum troupes perform for two full days on various outdoor stages in Narita, including the main stage in front of the Narita-san temple. Most of these pictures were taken on April 9, 2005.

Opened in 1983, the National Museum of Japanese History is a large museum in a large park in the city of Sakura which is on the way to Narita Airport. It traces the entire history, archaeology, and folklore of Japan from the Stone Age. Near Keisei Sakura Station on the way to Narita Airport.

Tokyo German Village is a large agricultural park with attractions in each season. In winter from Nov. 1 to March 31, it has a grand display of Christmas lights. The lights turn on right after sunset which is 5 pm or later. It's not very "German." The park is geared for people who can drive there. Very few buses run from JR Sodegaura Station.

Originally built in 1604 by Lord Takatora Todo, Imabari Castle today is still a very good castle complex with great views of the city and Inland Sea. The castle tower was reconstructed in 1980. Unfortunately, my camera lens had a fogging problem.

Originally completed in 1601 by master castle builder Lord Todo Takatora. The castle tower is small, but designated as an Important Cultural Asset. It gives great views of the city and bay. Unfortunately, my camera lens had a fogging problem.

Fukui Castle has been largely taken over by the prefectural government and police department with huge buildings which totally ruin the castle's historical significance and scenery. What remains, the moat and stone walls and foundations, are impressive.

Japan has a number of places named "Obama," and the city of Obama in Fukui Prefecture has played up its coincidence of its name with new US President Barack Obama. A citizens' group called "Obama wo Katte ni Oen Suru Kai" (Obama Informal Booster Association) has been active in promoting the city on the presidential candidate's and later president-elect's coattails. They even formed the Obama Girls and Obama Boys hula troupe. These pictures were taken on Jan. 20, 2009 when they celebrated the inauguration of Barack Obama. Also see my video at YouTube.

Featuring Japan's oldest surviving castle tower although it collapsed during the Fukui Earthquake in 1948. Rebuilt in 1955 with most of the original materials. Originally built in 1576 by Shibata Katsutoyo and also called Kasumiga-jo (Misty Castle).

Spectacular, natural rock columns and walls on the coast. Hiking trails and boat rides give you a closer look at this rare natural monument. Tojimbo is accessible by bus from JR Awara Onsen Station on the Hokuriku Line.

Established in 702 and nicknamed "Kei-san," Kehi Jingu is a major shrine in the Hokuriku Region. The main torii gate is one of Japan's three most famous wooden toriis. Kehi Jingu Shrine is a 20-min. walk from JR Tsuruga Station or a short bus ride. I visited on New Year's Day 2016 when it was a warm period with no snow.

Held during the Bon season in Aug., toro nagashi is candle-lit paper lanterns floated on the ocean as a Buddhist offering to the spirits of the deceased. Tsuruga holds its mass toro nagashi (6,000 lanterns) on its famous Kehi no Matsubara beach at 6:30 pm, and then shoots off a grand fireworks display. Photos taken on Aug. 16, 2006. Also see the video at YouTube.

Out in the boondocks of Tsuruga is the Tsuruga Nuclear Power Plant. Near the plant is their public relations facility and museum called the Tsuruga Nuclear Power Pavilion or Tsuruga PR Pavilion. A 40-min. bus ride from JR Tsuruga Station.

In Aizu-Wakamatsu, it is called Tsuruga-jo Castle. Outside the city, many call it Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle. The official name is Wakamatsu Castle. Lord Gamo Ujisato (from Shiga Prefecture) in 1593 built most of the castle and renamed it Tsurugajo. The castle tower was reconstructed in 1965 and serves as a castle history museum. In 2001, the Hoshii Yagura turret and the Minami Hashiri Nagaya corridor were also reconstructed.

In 1868, a unit of teenage warriors called Byakkotai (White Tiger Battalion) fought against the Emperor-backed Imperial forces encroaching their domain of Aizu. The Byakkotai were outnumbered and forced to retreat. Twenty of them escaped to Iimoriyama Hill where they saw what looked liked a burning Tsurugajo Castle which actually had not fallen yet. In despair, the boys decided to kill themselves rather than die in the hands of the enemy. Their tombstones are on this hill near where they killed themselves. Their story has become legend.

Native of Hino, Shiga Prefecture, Lord Gamo (Gamoh) Ujisato (1556-1595) is best known for building Aizu-Wakamatsu (Tsurugajo) Castle and founding Aizu-Wakamatsu. He suddenly died at age 40. One theory says that he was poisoned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

Hanamiyama Park is literally a Flower-Viewing Mountain Park famous for spring flowers especially cherry blossoms sprinkled on the mountainsides. A short bus ride from JR Fukushima Station. It started in 1935 when local flower growers began planting flowers all over the place. In April 1959, it became Hanamiyama Park.

Held on the first Fri. and Sat. of Aug., the Fukushima Waraji Matsuri is mainly an evening parade of dancers. During Aug. 7-8, 2009, the 40th Fukushima Waraji Festival was held. I saw it on the second day. Waraji are straw sandals. Also see my YouTube video here.

A huge, Hawaiian-themed water park and hot spring facility. Great place for families to play in large and small pools and hot springs. A Polynesian show with the famous hula girls is held twice a day. Restaurants, gift shops, rest areas, and outdoor hot spring baths make this a major attraction in Tohoku. The movie, "Hula Girl" in 2006 made it famous.

The Miharu Takizakura (Waterfall cherry blossoms) cherry tree is one of Japan's most famous and grandest weeping cherry tree. It is over 1,000 years old and the mother of thousands of weeping cherry trees in Japan and even overseas. While in bloom, it is lit up in the evening. Accessible from JR Miharu Station on the Ban'etsu-to Line from Koriyama Station. A National Natural Monument.

Nihonmatsu Castle, also popularly called Kasumigajo Castle, is in Kasumigajo Park on a low hill amid the flat plains of central Nihonmatsu. It is one of Japan's 100 Famous Castles as well as one of Japan's 100 Famous Cherry Blossom Sites. During the Edo Period, Nihonmatsu Castle was the residence of the Niwa clan who ruled Nihonmatsu. Although it lacks a central tower or donjon, Nihonmatsu Castle features impressive stone walls and gate (reconstructed), not to mention many cherry tees and pine trees.

Besides Nihonmatsu Castle, Nihonmatsu has other sights like poet Takamura Chieko's birth home, Dairinji temple noted for the graves of the Nihonmatsu Shōnentai (二本松少年隊) or the Nihonmatsu Teenage Corps, Nihonmatsu Shrine, and the Nihonmatsu History Museum.

From May 11 to Oct. 15, the famous Nagara River Ukai cormorant fishing is performed by fishing masters. In the evenings, you can ride on a boat on Nagaragawa River to watch them fish ayu sweetfish with a bright torch and the birds diving and catching the fish in their throats. Also see my YouTube video here.

Gifu Castle is a mountaintop castle on Mt. Kinkazan in central Gifu city. It was once the residence of Lord Dosan Saito and later Nobunaga Oda. The present castle was reconstructed as a ferro-concrete building in 1956. The castle commands spectacular views of Gifu. Accessible by ropeway. Also see the video at YouTube.

Held on the first weekend in Oct., the Gifu Nobunaga Matsuri's highlight is a Sunday afternoon parade (12:30 pm–2:20 pm) of people dressed in historical costumes centering on Oda Nobunaga (usually played by a celebrity), considered to be the father of Gifu city. They parade on the main drag from JR Gifu Station to the foot of Mt. Kinkazan, the location of Gifu Castle.

That super tall building next to JR Gifu Station is Gifu City Tower 43 that opened in Oct. 2007. Besides a few shops and restaurants, the building has a great lookout deck on the top. And it's free. On a clear day, you can see far and wide, like skyscrapers in Nagoya and Mt. Ibuki.

Kano-juku was the 53rd station or lodging/post town of the Nakasendo Road. No original buildings remain, except for Tenmangu Shrine and Kano Castle's stone walls. A few markers indicate the location of the Waki Honjin and Honjin. Short walk south of JR Gifu Station.

Takehana Matsuri is a festival of ornate floats paraded in central Hashima on May 3. Each float features a performance of puppets (karakuri) or kids dancing. The festival is coupled with the Wisteria Festival at Takehana Betsuin temple.

Ogaki Castle is said to have been built in 1535 by Lord Miyagawa Yasusada. It served as the base for the Ishida Mitsunari's western forces during the Sekigahara War in 1600. The original castle was a National Treasure until it was destroyed during the war in 1945. The castle tower was reconstructed in 1959. Very pretty during cherry blossom season. Near JR Ogaki Station.

This promenade is a 2.2 km walking path from Ogaki Station to Matsuo Basho's final point in his Oku-no-Hosomichi journey. It follows along the Suimon River and is especially pretty during cherry blossom season when rides on wooden tub boats (tarai-bune) are offered.

Ogaki's biggest festival held on May 9-10 features eleven ornate floats called "yama." They are paraded along the streets in central Ogaki. Highlights include karakuri mechanical doll performances atop the floats and the floats lit up at night with paper lanterns. Held by Hachiman Jinja Shrine. On Dec. 1, 2016 (JST), Ogaki Matsuri Festival was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of 33 "Yama, Hoko, and Yatai float festivals in Japan." Also see my YouTube video of karakuri puppets here and of children's dances here.

According to legend, Sunomata Castle was built overnight by Toyotomi Hideyoshi while he was still an lowly samurai. Sunomata Ichiya Castle was reconstructed in April 1991. Now a local history museum. Accessible by Gifu Bus (W65 on Obusa Sunomata Route) from JR Gifu Station and Ogaki Station. Get off at Sunomata bus stop.

One of Japan's most pivotal battles took place here on Oct. 21, 1600 (Sept. 15 of Keicho 5) between Tokugawa Ieyasu's Eastern Forces and Toyotomi Hideyoshi loyalist Ishida Mitsunari's Western Forces. Ieyasu's victory in the Battle of Sekigahara sealed Japan's historical fate for the next 250 years. The former battlefield is dotted with monuments indicating the positions of various warlords during the battle.

On Oct. 19, 2008, the town of Sekigahara held a special two-day festival to commemorate the Battle of Sekigahara. These photos were taken on the second day when a procession and mock battle were staged. Matchlock gun battalions added to the colorful drama. Also see my YouTube video here.

This is an outdoor park with larger-than-life, painted concrete sculptures depicting the Battle of Sekigahara between Tokugawa Ieyasu and Ishida Mitsunari. The battlefield is not geographically recreated. Admission charged.

Imasu-juku was the fifty-ninth of the sixty-nine stations or shukuba post towns of the Nakasendo Road. It follows Sekigahara-juku and comes before Kashiwabara-juku in Shiga Pref. Today, it has very few remnants of its Nakasendo past. It is between Sekigahara and Kashiwabara Stations on the JR Tokaido Line.

One of the main attractions of Shirakawa-go, this privately-owned house is the largest gassho-zukuri house in Shirakawa-go. The Wada family still live in the house while much of the house is open to the public. See the huge attic where they used to produce silk.

Myozenji is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Jodo Shinshu sect, the most common sect in Shirakawa-go. It's the only temple in the gassho-zukuri style with a thatched roof. The Hondo worshp hall is the largest building in Shirakawa-go.

Shirakawa-go's main source of income is tourism. Many old farmhouses with thatched roofs have been converted into lodging called "minshuku." But looks can be deceiving as the interior is completely modern. I have experience at four minshuku at Shirakawa-go.

Central Takayama near Takayama Station is noted for traditional buildings. Many attractions are within walking distance from the station. The Important Traditional Building Preservation Area is popular with tourists.

Central Takayama's most important traditional building is this former Government House. Originally the palace of Lord Kanamori of Takayama Castle, it was later used by local government administrators from 1692 to 1868. It is a National Historic Site.

The Takayama Festival is held twice a year, during April 14-15 and Oct. 9-10. The spring festival is held by Hieda Shrine and it is called Sanno Matsuri. The festival features twelve ornate "yatai" floats which are displayed and pulled along the streets. In a large plaza, katakuri puppets perform on a few of the floats. The festival is also dramatic at night with a float procession. On Dec. 1, 2016 (JST), Takayama Matsuri Festival was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of 33 "Yama, Hoko, and Yatai float festivals in Japan."

Famous for its giant torii next to the shinkansen train tracks, this shrine is dedicated to Kanayama-hiko-no-Mikoto 金山彦命. It is the headquarters shrine for all Kanayama Shrines and iron-related shrines in Japan. Many of the buildings are Important Cultural Properties.

Held on May 2-4, three ornate hikiyama floats are displayed and paraded around town. Young boys also perform in kabuki plays on the floats. May 3 is the main festival day, but May 2 is also a good day to see the matsuri. These photos were taken on May 2, 2009. Also see my YouTube video here.

Yoro town's most famous attraction is Yoro Park and Yoro (Yoro-no-taki) Falls, especially during cherry blossom season in early April and during the autumn foliage. Yoro was named by Empress Gensho in the 8th century and proclaimed Yoro as the fountain of youth. She even named her era after Yoro (717-724). Even today, Yoronotaki Falls is one of Japan's 100 Famous Waterfalls and 100 Famous Water Springs.

Near the entrance to the Stone Steps, Ikaho has the summer home of Robert Walker Irwin, American businessman from Philadelphia, PA and the Hawaiian Minister to Japan during the late 19th century. He oversaw the Japanese immigration to Hawaii during 1885-1894. Part of his summer villa has been preserved here. Next to the house is the Guidance Museum with exhibits related to the Irwin family and Japanese emigration to Hawaii. Open 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Free admission. Map here 渋川市伊香保町伊香保32 Tel: 0279-20-3033

Ikaho Onsen Spa held the 12th King Kalakaua Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Festival during Aug. 3-6, 2008. During the day, numerous Japanese hula groups performed on stage. Hawaiian seminars were also taught by kumu hula Aloha Dalire. In the evenings, Hula Halau 'O Kamuela from Oahu performed as the festival's main event. Ikaho's connection to Hawaii lies with the summer residence of Robert Walker Irwin, the Hawaiian Minister to Japan during the late 19th century.

The overall winner of the Merrie Monarch Festival held in Hilo, Hawai'i in April is invited to perform at Ikaho's annual Hawaiian Festival in Aug. During the evenings of Aug. 3-6, 2008, Hula Halau 'O Kamuela gave a spellbinding, one-hour performance with numerous costume changes and surprise solo performances by kumu hula Aloha Dalire and Kunewa Mook on different nights.

During Aug. 5-7, 2003, Ikaho hosted the 7th King Kalakaua Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Festival featuring hula performances by numerous Japanese hula groups. In the evenings, Hawaii's top hula halau (overall winner of the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hawaii) performed as the festival's main event. Ikaho's connection to Hawaii lies with the summer residence of Robert Walker Irwin, the Hawaiian Minister to Japan during the late 19th century.

Byakui Dai-Kannon means Giant Kannon in white wardrobe. Buiilt in 1936, this giant Kannon statue is almost like a temple itself with 20 Buddha figures inside. You can climb up the stairs inside and see Takasaki from above.

Soto-Zen temple famous for the Bunpuku Chagama (分福茶釜) folk tale about a tanuki raccoon dog that transformed into a steel pot used by the temple priest over the fire. When it got too hot, the tanuki reverted back to itself and ran away. Tatebayashi is a Tanuki Town because you see it everywhere. Souvenir shops also sell the beckoning tanuki which are made in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture. Near Morinji-mae Station on the Tobu Line. Temple address: 群馬県館林市堀工町1570 Thanks to my friend Bessie (also from Hawaii) for taking me around the city.

Tatebayashi Castle remains, Rekishi-no-Mori history park, and Tataranuma Park (多々良沼公園). Tataranuma Park is a prefectural park with a small, marshy lake with enough reed fields to attract swans migrating from Siberia every winter. A shrine on a small island is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. The pleasant lakeside park also has lots of picnic space and wisteria.

Etajima island is home to Japan's Naval Academy officially called the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force First Service School (海上自衛隊第1術科学校), akin to Annapolis in the US. It originally opened as the Imperial Naval Academy in 1888. The Naval Academy conducts free guided tours of the school 3 or 4 times a day. The main attraction for me was the display of a midget submarine used in the Pearl Harbor attack. For more info see the academy's Web site here.

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima island is one of Japan's most famous sights and one of Japan's Scenic Trio (Nihon Sankei) and World Heritage Site. Short train ride from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima-guchi and a short ferry ride to the island.

The JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force) Kure Museum is mainly a submarine museum whose main attraction is the decommissioned sub called Akishio. The museum is conveniently right across the street from the Yamato Museum.

Hokkaido's main gateway and Japan third busiest airport after Narita and Haneda. Built in 1991 to replace the old Chitose Airport, it still looks very new and modern with a spacious terminal building with loads of shops and restaurants.

A large history-oriented park with museums, historical buildings, culture center, public library, pool, Japanese garden, and souvenir shops. The Geihinkan Guesthouse 迎賓館 and Kaitaku Kinenkan Museum 開拓記念館 are the main attractions. Cherry blossoms also bloom in May. Date is a city of 37,000, founded in 1870 by a samurai named Date Kunishige and his vassals and citizens who migrated from Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture.

Toyako Onsen is a pleasant hot spring town on the southern shore of Lake Toya in Toyako-cho town. It is the lake's main town and tourist base. Besides numerous lakeshore hotels with hot spring waters, the town has a nice lakeside promenade, splendid views of the Nakajima islands, outdoor sculptures, lake cruises, swan boats, and free hot spring foot and hand baths. A day trip is also viable to enjoy the healthy spa.

The Ekimae Sanbashi Pier, almost front and center along Toyako Onsen's lake shore, has cruise boats leaving for lake cruises to the Nakajima islands every 30 min. from 8 am to 4:30 pm during April-Oct. During Nov.-April, it operates every hour from 9 am to 4 pm. The cruise takes 50 min. if you don't get off to visit the Nakajima islands. Otherwise, allow 80 min. if you want to get also step foot on the Nakajima islands.

I rented a bicycle at Toyako Onsen and rode around Lake Toya counterclockwise which is easier than going clockwise and the lake view is better on the left side of the road. From the hot spring, I rode through the eastern shore while admiring cherry blossoms (blooming in early May) and plum blossoms (which bloom at the same time as cherries). Lake Toya's east area is part of Sobetsu town.

Continuing from Lake Toya's east shore, this album completes my counterclockwise cycling trip around the lake as we head north and then to the western shore back to Toyako Onsen. The northern shore has a nature trail, the Toya Mizunoeki tourist rest stop, Ukimido lakeside pagoda, and some beautiful cherry trees along the shore.

Showa-Shinzan (398 meters high) is a sub-volcano and lava dome of neighboring Mt. Usu. Looking like a bald spot, it was created during 1943-45 from what used to be a flat piece of land. In the valley between Showa-Shinzan and Mt. Usuzan is a tourist village (called Kazan-mura) with souvenir shops and the Usuzan Ropeway terminal. The ropeway takes you up to Mt. Usu where you can see a great views of Showa-Shinzan and Lake Toya. A hiking trail also goes to another crater on Usuzan.

The Nishiyama Craters are a series of craters on the west side of Mt. Usu, created during the latest eruption in March 2000. A walking trail takes you near the rim of a few craters, including wrecked roads and buildings still remaining. Very impressive with steam still being emitted. Takes 3 min. by bus from Toyako Onsen or 15 min. from Toya Station. The trail takes about 40 min. to walk one-way. Open from April 20 to Nov. 10. Free admission.

Sobetsu Koen or Park is in Sobetsu-cho town on the eastern shore of Lake Toya. It is a hillside park with numerous ume plum trees and grand views of the lake. The plum trees bloom during early to mid-May, at the same time as cherry blossoms.

With 24 tournament victories, Kitanoumi was one of sumo's greatest Yokozuna (grand champion) in modern times. "Kitanoumi" means "Lake of the North," and this refers to Lake Toya. Kitanoumi hails from Sobetsu town which is on the lake's eastern shore. This Yokozuna Kitanoumi museum is dedicated to him with numerous photos, memorabalia, and sculpture of Kitanoumi performing the dohyo-iri. The museum also houses the Sobetsu History Museum (壮瞥町郷土史料館).

During July 7-9, 2008, the G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit will be held in Toyako town fronting Lake Toya in Shikotsu-Toya National Park in southwestern Hokkaido. Toyako was selected as the venue for its natural beauty and environment. The Lake Toya area, which includes Toyako and Sobetsu towns, are in a Welcome mode with welcome signs everywhere. A slew of Summit merchandise is also on sale. These photos were taken in early May 2008.

JR Toya Station is the main railway gateway to the Lake Toya area. It is on the JR Muroran Line. Express trains run from Sapporo and Chitose. The station building has been renovated with a spacious waiting/exhibition room. In 2008, it is in welcome mode for the G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit with welcome signs.

Otaru is a living architectural museum. There are numerous old and distinguished buildings which have been preserved. The city has a building code requiring all buildings to be designed to fit in the overall architectural scheme. If you like 19th century and early 20th century architecture, glassware, and/or music boxes, you will love Otaru. The historic buildings are concentrated along the Ironai-dori and Sakai-machi-dori road. A short walk from the Otaru Canal.

Two historical buildings in Otaru are Important Cultural Properties, and this is one of them. Nippon Yusen, or NYK Line, was and is a major shipping company. This building was their Otaru Branch office, elegant enough to be a State Guesthouse.

Started in 1950, the Sapporo Snow Festival is Japan's grandest and most famous winter festival. I finally saw it again, the 61st Sapporo Snow Festival held during Feb. 5-11, 2010. Being from Hawaii, I was compelled to see it this year because one of the sculptures was Hawaii's Iolani Palace made of ice. Other giant sculptures included buildings in Germany and Korea.

Hawaii's most famous building, the Iolani Palace, was built out of ice at the 2010 Sapporo Snow Festival. It was the second time for the palace to be featured at the snow festival. The first time was at the 1982 Sapporo Snow Festival. I saw it both times, and it was awesome both times. Also see my YouTube video here.

The city's most famous and popular park. A real nice oasis in the city, especially during the warmer months with water fountains, flowers, green grass, and sunshine. Also the site of the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. See how it looks in spring. Includes views from the Sapporo TV Tower.

Symbol of Sapporo, the Clock Tower was built in 1878 as part of the Sapporo Agricultural College established largely by three Americans from Massachusetts: Dr. Willian S. Clark, William Wheeler, and David P. Penhallow. The clock in the tower is the original, installed in 1881. Its chime sounds the same as over a century ago. Near Odori Park.

Built in 1888, the former Hokkaido Government Office Building is one of Hokkaido's most famous buildings. With its red brick walls, it stands out among Sapporo's more modern buildings. Several of its rooms are open to the public mainly as a museum. An Important Cultural Property. Near Sapporo Station and Ekimae-dori. Free admission.

Nicknamed "Satsu-eki," Sapporo Station came of age in 2003 with a new mega station building boasting a built-in department store, the JR Tower with fine views from the lookout deck, shops and restaurants, and a spacious tourist info office. It is Hokkaido's busiest and grandest train station which is more like shopping complex rather than a train station.

Ekimae-dori is the main drag from Sapporo Station heading south toward Odori Park, Susukino, and Nakajima Park. Shops, department stores, offices, shopping arcades, and night life abound along this stimulating strip.

A tourist attraction in a Sapporo suburb, famous for the statue of Dr. William Clark saying "Boys, Be Ambitious." The place also has the Sapporo Snow Festival Museum. Accessible by bus from Fukuzumi Station (Toho subway line).

Visible from Akashi Station, Akashi Castle was first built in 1619 by Lord Ogasawara Tadamasa (later renamed Tadazane 小笠原忠真）. Only two turrets, stone walls, and moats survive. It is within Akashi Park.

A symbol of Kobe, Kobe Port Tower was built in 1963 on the fringe of the waterfront Meriken Park. The tower is 108 meters high, designed like the tsuzumi taiko shoulder drum. Meriken Park is Kobe's waterfront park that includes Kobe Maritime Museum, South American emigration monument, outdoor sculptures, and the preserved dock that was damaged by the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995.

Near Sannomiya Station, Kitano is a district dotted with numerous Western-style homes built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when foreigners were allowed to reside in Kobe. Many homes are open to tourists.

The Kansai Region's most popular holiday lights held every Dec. in memory of the 1995 Hanshin Earthquake. Over 3 million people see it during the 10 days the Italian-style illumination is displayed. Held since Dec. 1995, this is the 24th one in Dec. 2018. The lights are on from 6 pm or 5 pm (weekends) to 9:30 pm or 10 pm. Near JR Motomachi Station.

On Jan. 17, 1995, the Kobe area was devastated by a huge earthquake, killing over 6,000 people. I visited Kobe 10 days after the quake hit. I show these photos on the 15th anniversary of the killer quake.

Large, multi-purpose facility that includes exhibition rooms showing Kobe's history of Japanese immigration, especially to South America. Art studios, art gallery spaces, and meeting rooms are also provided for cultural exchange. It is also a consultation center for South American residents of Kobe. Operated by the city of Kobe, the facility opened on June 3, 2009 in the building that was formerly the Kobe Immigration Center (神戸移住センター) where Japanese immigrants stayed before traveling mainly to South America (especially Brazil) by boat.
The center was used from 1928 to 1971 and it is Japan's only surviving building used for sending Japanese immigrants. A few of the old rooms used by the immigrants have been restored. Otherwise, there are numerous rooms for rent, including an event hall, meeting rooms, and gallery spaces.
15-min. walk from JR Motomachi Station (East Exit) on the JR Tokaido/Kobe Line. Walk straight along Koikawa-suji road (鯉川筋). Or 10-min. walk from Kencho-mae Station on the subway line. From JR Shin-Kobe Station (shinkansen), 10-min. taxi ride. Hours: 10:00 am -5:00 pm (enter by 4:30 pm), closed Mon.

Nishinomiya Jinja Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan is the headquarters for all Ebisu shrines in Japan. Centering on Jan. 10, the Toka Ebisu festival is held here with 1 million people coming to worship and pray for business prosperity. One highlight is the giant tuna on display for people to stick on their coins. These photos were taken on Jan 10, 2011.

The Oriental White Stork Park is in the middle of rice paddies near some mountains. It is a bird sanctuary, college research facility, stork museum, and tourist attraction (gift shops). Once found all over Japan, the Oriental white stork ("kounotori" in Japanese) became extinct in the wild in Japan in 1971 despite preservation efforts since 1955. Toyooka was where the last living Oriental white stork in Japan died in 1986. This park leads Japan's efforts to reintroduce the Oriental white stork back into the wild. Open: 9:00 am–5:00 pm, closed Mondays (open if a national holiday and closed the next day instead), December 28th–January 4th.

Kinosaki Onsen is only 10 min. away by train from Toyooka Station. It's one of the best onsen I've ever visited in Japan. It's picturesque, and the main highlight are the seven public hot spring baths (sotoyu 外湯). Lots to see and do. All the attractions are within walking distance from Kinosaki Onsen Station. Compact hot spring town.

Also in Izushi is Eirakukan theater, the Kansai Region's oldest kabuki theater built in 1901. Open to the public. You are free to walk on the hanamichi, stage, dressing rooms, and even the basement where you can see the rotating stage.

Ibaraki Prefecture is north of Tokyo, and Kita-Ibaraki is the northernmost city in Ibaraki, right below southern Fukushima Prefecture (Iwaki) on the fringe of the Tohoku Region. From Ueno Station in Tokyo, it takes about 2 hours by JR Joban Line express train.
The Izura Coast is Kita-Ibaraki's most scenic area. Noted for the red Rokkakudo Pavilion which is a symbol of the city. Nearby is the Tenshin Memorial Museum of Art, Ibaraki. This part of the coast was also home to Okakura Tenshin and prominent Nihonga painters Yokoyama Taikan, Hishida Shunso, and Kimura Buzan.

Being on the coast, Kita-Ibaraki is a fishing port with its own culture of fishing. Hirakata Port is where fishing boats come in with their catch of monkfish, a type of anglerfish. It's a city symbol and famous delicacy, especially the liver (ankimo). The Yo-soro Fishing History Museum is also impressive.

Hanazono Shrine (花園神社) is in the scenic Hanazono Gorge in the mountainous interior of the city. Founded in 795 by Shogun Sakanoue no Tamuramaro (758–811 坂上田村麻呂). The Tokugawa was also a patron, starting with Ieyasu in 1602 who gave land to the shrine. Noted for rhododendron and fall leaves.

It's not related to Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku, Tokyo, but it's related to Hie Shrine in Akasaka. It belongs to the same family of Shinto shrines worshipping the mountain deity Sanno (山王) headquartered at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine at the foot of Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. 30 min. by taxi from Isohara Station.

One of Japan's three most famous gardens, Kairakuen is especially noted for thousands of plum blossom trees which bloom in Feb. and March. It also has the Kobuntei Villa with exquisite Japanese-style paintings on paper sliding doors. Kairakuen was built in 1841 by Tokugawa Nariaki (1800-1860), the ninth Lord of Mito.

One of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, Mt. Tsukuba is an easy day trip from Tokyo. The mountain has two wedded peaks, Nantai (male) and Nyotai (female). You can either climb up to the peak or take the convenient and low-cost cable car or ropeway up to one of the peaks.

A big, two-day August festival in this modern city on the outskirts of Tokyo featuring diverse dance groups, bazaar, street performances, hula dancing, and food stalls. The climax is a nebuta parade in the evening. Everything is near Tsukuba Station (Tsukuba Express). I went on the second day on Aug. 30, 2009.

Motsuji temple is part of the "Historic Monuments and Sites of Hiraizumi" World Heritage Site. It belongs to the Tendai Buddhist sect. Founded in 850 by Ennin, the third abbot of Tendai based at Enryakuji temple atop Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. Since most of the temple structures burnt down, the main attraction today is the 800-year-old Pure Land Garden featuring a large pond called Oizumi ga Ike. It's short distance away from Chusonji temple.

Naoshima is an island in the Seto Inland Sea famous for art museums and outdoor sculptures. Kusama Yayoi's pumpkin sculptures are likely the most iconic. The island is very popular with foreign tourists. A short ferry ride from Uno Station/Port in Okayama.

Held annually on the first to second Sunday in July. On the eighth day, a large mikoshi (portable shrine) from Yasaka Shrine on Enoshima is carried from the shrine to Koyuguri Shrine on the mainland. Along the way, the mikoshi is carried into the ocean. On the mainland, the Yasaka mikoshi is met with a mikoshi from Koyuguri Shrine. They then parade together along a shopping street before the Yasaka mikoshi goes back to Enoshima at around 6 pm. Also see the video at YouTube.
八坂神社神幸祭「神輿海中渡御」

Held annually on Nov. 3, a national holiday (Culture Day), the Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu is a feudal lord procession held at Hakone's Yumoto Onsen hot spring resort. About 170 people dressed in feudal-era costume and other people in marching bands, etc., parade around the town for about 6 km. The procession reenacts the daimyo procession of Okubo Kaga, lod of Odawara on his way to Edo (Tokyo) for the periodic sankin kotai procession.

One of Japan's most popular tour routes. With the Hakone Freepass, ride the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku, Tokyo directly to Hakone-Yumoto. Take the Hakone Tozan Railway train to Gora. Ride the Hakone Tozan Cable Car up the slope to to Sounzan. Then take the Hakone Ropeway high above to Lake Ashi for a cruise on a pirate boat to Hakone-machi Port or Moto-Hakone. Dramatic views of Mt. Fuji. Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

At Hakone-machi on the shore of Lake Ashi, a fantastic reconstruction of the Hakone Sekisho Checkpoint. After years of research, excavations, and construction, the reconstruction was finally completed in 2007 based on accurate records of the major buildings. The reconstructed buildings were built on the exact spot of the original sekisho buildings. Hakone Sekisho was one of 53 checkpoints along the major roads during the Edo Period. It's where they checked the identities of women leaving Edo to make sure they were not the hostage daimyo wives and children fleeing Edo.
Moto-Hakone is the other port town on Lake Ashi, highlighted by Hakone Shrine (the torii in the water).

Large, outdoor museum of exquisite sculptures. Many nudes (female) and Henry Moore pieces outside. Also the Picasso Pavilion. Both the art and grounds are very impressive. Near Chokoku no Mori Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway.

Hakone-Yumoto Station is the main gateway to Hakone's hot springs, sights, and attractions. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun is famous for hot spring baths in different flavors. Like the wine bath, tea bath, coffee bath, and sake bath. The flavored baths are for both men and women in bathing suits. They also have a pure hot spring area where bathing suits are not allowed.

Held for four days from the first Thursday of July, this is one of the largest Tanabata Festivals in the Kanto region. Usually called the Star Festival, about 3,000 colorful streamers hang all around the city center in the shopping district. There is also a parade and nighttime illumination of the streamers. Until 2008, the festival used to be held on and around July 7, but now depending on the year, July 7 might not fall within the festival period.

Nicknamed the Hydrangea Temple (Ajisai-dera), Meigetsu-in must have one of Japan's highest concentration of ajisai within its grounds. During the first half of June, the Hime-ajisai variety of blue hydrangea bloom all at once. Near Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line, the temple belongs to the Rinzai Zen Buddhist sect.

Nichiren Buddhist temple founded in 1260. Site was formerly the estate of the Hiki Yoshikazu, a senior retainer of Minamoto Yoritomo. The temple grounds is noted for cherry blossoms and other flowers. 10-min. walk from Kamakura Station.

The Ofuna Kannon temple is a Zen temple noted for its giant, white Kannon statue near JR Ofuna Station. It's on a hill so the Kannon statue is visible from trains and cars passing by. The temple belongs to the Soto sect. It held a Setsubun bean-throwing ceremony on Feb. 1, 2013. Also see my video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYXmGezsrmE

Kanayama Jinja Shrine is a small shrine within the grounds of the Wakamiya Hachimangu Shrine near Kawasaki Daishi Station. On the first Sun. of April, it holds this now-famous Kanamara Festival nicknamed the Phallus or Fertility Festival. The festival has grown from a small local matsuri to a large, international gathering. Also see the video at YouTube. 金山神社 若宮八幡宮

Belonging to the Shingon Buddhist sect founded by Kobo Daishi, this temple is one of the Kanto Region's Big Three Shingon temples (other two being Narita-san in Chiba and Yakuoin in Mt. Takao). Near Kawasaki Daishi Station.

Outdoor museum of traditional farm and merchant houses with thatched roofs. They have 25 homes from around Japan many were donated to the museum for preservation. If you're interested in traditional Japanese architecture, visit this park. Near Mukogaoka-yuen Station on the Odakyu Line. Closed Mon. Admission 500 yen. 横須賀市

Train and Bus Museum is a medium-size museum, not really a must-see, but if you're in the area, it may be nice to visit. Only a few train cars and buses and even an airplane cockpit are displayed in two separate buildings. However, that's enough to keep the kids occupied. The museum was renovated in 2016, so it may look different from the photos shown here. Near Miyazaki-dai Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line connected to Shibuya.

On a hillside near Odakyu Shin-Matsuda and JR Matsuda Stations, a large patch of cherry blossoms bloom in mid-February to late March. These are early-blooming (hayasaki) sakura. The place is spectacular when the cherries are in full bloom. There are rape blossoms and views of Mt. Fuji and the ocean. Free admission.

Odawara Castle was the base for the Hojo Clan during the feudal era. It is one of Japan's 100 Best Cherry Blossoms Spots. They have been reconstructing a few castle buildings while the main tower is a local samurai history museum. It is within a park including a small zoo and cherry trees. The present castle tower was rebuilt in 1960. A short walk from Odawara Station.

Kanagawa Prefecture's largest Awa Odori is held annually during the last weekend in July in this city of Yamato. It is not so crowded so it is easy to watch and photograph. These pictures were taken in 2005. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Yokohama 横浜市Pictures of Yokohama, the capital city of Kanagawa Prefecture.

Feb. 10, 2013 was the Chinese New Year's Day in Japan's largest Chinatown in Yokohama. Lion dances and firecrackers abound during the late afternoon and early evening. My first Chinese New Year in Japan, called "shunsetsu" in Japanese (春節). New Year's events also held on a few weekends after the Chinese New year's. Glad to see that China-Japan relations are alive and well here, regardless of political differences.

Japan's largest museum dedicated to the nikkei experience. There are permanent exhibitions explaining the immigration to Hawai'i, continental USA, and other countries especially South America. There are also changing or special exhibitions so it's worth visiting more than once. Besides exhibition rooms, the museum has a reference library (closed on Sun.) with a collection of 20,000 books and materials about Japan's immigration. It even has kami-shibai (picture card stories). You can browse through recent Japanese novels such as "Japanese-Americans 99 Years of Love." The museum also has a restaurant with an outdoor terrace (open 11:30 am - 1:30 pm, 5:30 pm - 9 pm). The museum is operated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) which is Japan's version of the Peace Corps.

Near Sakuragicho Station, Kamonyama Park features a statue of Lord Ii Naosuke of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture. He was the Chief Minister in the Tokugawa Government and the key person to open up Japan to the world in the late 19th century. Yokohama was one of the ports opened to foreign trade as a result.

Hawaii's most famous canoe named Hokule'a departed Hawaii in Jan. 2007 and sailed to Micronesia and arrived in Japan in April. It visited Okinawa, Kyushu, Shikoku, Hiroshima, and other places until arriving in Yokohama on June 9, 2007, the final stop. I went to see the Hokulea canoe arrive in Yokohama. Like at its other stops in Japan, Hokule'a offered free onboard canoe tours to the public during its one-week stay in Yokohama. We could see the top deck, rudder, masts, cramped sleeping quarters, food pantry, and more of this legendary canoe named after a star named Hokulea in Hawaiian.

What may be Japan's largest Hawaiian festival was held in two locations in Yokohama during July 25-27, 2008. The main venue was at the huge Osanbashi Pier normally used to receive large passenger ships. It is cavernous hall used by the three-day festival to set up four stages and numerous booths selling Hawaiian goods and food. The other location was Landmark Plaza in Minato Mirai.

Yokohama Port was opened to the world in 1859, making 2009 the 150th anniversary of the port's opening. To celebrate, Yokohama held EXPO Y150 during April 28 to Sept. 27, 2009, a modest-scale expo featuring pavilions, theaters, and performances. The expo has three areas, with the Bayside Area being the main one at the waterfront area next to the Red Brick Warehouses. Also see my video at YouTube.

Photos of the 1st and 2nd CP+ Camera and Photo Imaging Show held in Yokohama. The 1st CP+ was held during March 11-14, 2010. The 2nd CP+ was held on Feb. 9-13, 2011. It replaces the old photo expo held in Tokyo called Photo Imaging Expo (PIE). Over 41,000 people attended CP+ in 2010.

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Yokosuka 横須賀市Pictures of Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, including US aircraft carriers in port.

Sights near Keikyu Yokosuka Chuo Station and JR Yokosuka Station include Mikasa Park, Verny Park, Dobuita Street, and Cape Kannonzaki where numerous ships pass through the narrow Uraga Channel at the mouth of Tokyo Bay.

Kurihama is in southeastern Yokosuka, a small bay with a beach. Famous as the landing place of Commodore Mathew Perry who arrived on July 8, 1853 and landed ashore on July 14. A monument to this historic landing is near the beach, as well as the Perry Memorial Hall.

The USS George Washington aircraft carrier arrived at her new home port in Yokosuka on Sept. 25, 2008. Replacing the retiring USS Kitty Hawk, the GW is the first nuclear-powered carrier to be deployed in Japan. The usual protesters also showed up. Aircraft carrier photos by the US Navy.

The USS Kitty Hawk was home-ported in Yokosuka from Aug. 11, 1998 to May 2008. These photos by the US Navy shows some of the good times and drama aboard the carrier, as well as the Sayonara day when the ship left Yokosuka for good.

Yokosuka is the home port to the only US aircraft carrier based outside the US. First it was the USS Midway, then the Independence, Kitty Hawk, and now the George Washington. These are photos of the USS Independence (CV-62) and USS Midway taken in the early 1990s when I was with a group touring the aircraft carriers.

Held annually in early May along the Sagami River right next to the Sagamihara kite festival on the same days. Unfortunately, the wind was not strong enough for a prolonged flight. Photos were taken on May 5, 2005.

Kurotani is the name of the village (now part of Ayabe city) where Kurotani washi papermaking started 800 years ago. Visited Kurotani Washi-no-Sato Japanese papermaking village and also tried making washi postcards at Kurotani Washi Kougei No Sato (Kurotani Washi Craft Village 黒谷和紙 工芸の里).

Stayed at a farmhouse lodge (農家民宿) in Ayabe. Ayabe has a good number of farmers who have moved here from the city for one reason or another. Some of them run lodges and they welcome foreigners as well.

The symbol of Fukuchiyama, Fukuchiyama Castle is a prominent edifice mainly built by Akechi Mitsuhide in 1579. The main castle tower was reconstructed in 1986 serving as a local history and folk museum. The top floor has great views of the city. 20-min. walk from JR Fukuchiyama Station. Open 9 am–5 pm, closed Tue. and Dec. 28th–31st, Jan. 4th–6th. Map: https://goo.gl/maps/8ZY7HHrDvoC2

Museum explaining and exhibiting oni (demon, ogre) artwork and local oni legends of the Oeyama Mountains. Masks, statues, kawara roof tile ornaments, and paintings of oni from all over Japan and some from overseas. All donated to the museum. The museum is at the foot of the Oeyama Mountains (大江山).
The Oeyama mountains are known for famous oni legends. That's why this museum was built here in 1993 on the former site of a copper mine. The town wanted to promote itself as an oni town.

On the east coast of Tango Peninsula in northern Kyoto Prefecture is Ine, a picturesque fishing village right on the water's edge. Unique for the built-in funaya "boat garages" (舟屋) where waterfront homes keep a boat next to the water. This village is designated as an Important Traditional Townscape Preservation District of Japan (重要伝統的建造物 群保存地区) and Japan's first fishing village to be so designated.

Tango Peninsula in northern Kyoto Prefecture is scenic along the coast with a number of natural features and formations like Byobu Iwa Rock and Tateiwa Rock. Much of the coast is part of the San'in Kaigan Geopark (山陰海岸ジオパーク) that extends from the western half (Kyotango city) of Tango Peninsula to Tottori Prefecture. San'in Kaigan Geopark is also a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Mention "Tango" to the average Japanese, and they most likely will answer "chirimen?" Scenic Tango Peninsula is synonymous with chirimen silk fabrics made here since 300 years ago.
"Chirimen" (縮緬) literally means "shrunken or crimped fabric." In the West, we call it "crepe fabric." So it has a wrinkly or bumpy surface. We visited a few chirimen factories in Tango and talked to a few of the top people in the industry. We were very impressed by the extremely high quality and their use around the world by major fashion brands.

Kyoto's most famous geisha dance is held during the entire month of April at the Kobu Kaburenjo Theater in the Gion district. Since 1873, the show has delighted generations of Japanese and foreigners. Photography is not allowed. For more info, see miyako-odori.jp in English or call 075-541-3391.

One of Kyoto's Big Three Festivals held on May 15. The Aoi Matsuri's colorful procession of over 500 people in Heian-Period costumes start off at the Kyoto Gosho Imperial Palace and head for the Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines. These photos were taken in 2005. Also see the video at YouTube.

One of Kyoto's Big Three Festivals and perhaps Japan's grandest costume parade, the Kyoto Jidai Matsuri is a procession of over 2,000 people dressed in wardrobe reflecting Kyoto's historical periods from 794 to 1868 during which Kyoto was Japan's capital. Held annually on Oct. 22 by Heian Jingu Shrine. The festival commemorates the day when Japan's capital was moved to Kyoto in 794. These photos were taken on Oct. 22, 2009.

On July 16, the night before the Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Junko parade of floats, the Yoiyama display of floats lit up at night attract huge crowds in central Kyoto. You can also enter some of the grand floats. And a special treat is that private residences in the old kimono merchant district open up their entryways to show folding screens, kimono, and other treasures.

Kyoto's second Big Three Festival and one of Japan's Big Three Festivals. This Gion Matsuri is also Japan's grandest festival of floats. Held annually in July, the festival's climax is on the 17th when giant, wooden-wheeled floats are pulled through the streets for the Saki Matsuri Yama-hoko Procession. Also see the video at YouTube.

On July 24, a week after Gion Matsuri's main yama-hoko procession on the 17th, another grand float procession is held with 10 yama-hoko floats. The parade route goes in the reverse direction of the 17th. Also see the video at YouTube.

The headquarters shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan, this grand shrine is famous for its numerous torii gates along a mountain trail. This is also Kyoto's most popular shrine on New Year's Day, when I visited on Jan. 1, 2010.

Eikando is a Jodo-shu Buddhist temple famous for autumn foliage, especially red maples. One of Kyoto's most photogenic spots for fall leaves. Next to Nanzan temple, near Keage Station. From Kyoto Station, take the No. 5 bus, get off at Nanzen-ji Eikando-michi.

Tofukuji is a Zen Buddhist temple famous for red maple leaves. Quite spectacular and photogenic landscapes. One of the five great Zen temples of Kyoto. 10-min. walk from Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line).

Although it does not have a castle tower, Nijo-jo Castle is Japan's best preserved and most magnificent castle palace. Built on the order of Tokugawa Ieyasu to serve as the Kyoto residence for the Tokugawa shoguns. The interior is full of paintings (unfortunately photography is not allowed inside). A National Treasure.

The residence of the emperor from the 14th century to 1869 when Emperor Meiji moved to Tokyo. For the 20th anniversary of Emperor Akihito's enthronement in 1989, they held a special open house during Nov. 1-10, 2009 when we got to see buildings and areas normally closed to the public. The palace consists of numerous notable buildings.

Held every Jan. 3, Karuta Hajime is the year's first karuta card game. Karuta players from the Nihon Karuta-in Hon-in organization in Kyoto play on Yasaka Shrine's Noh stage for about an hour from 1 pm. They are dressed in colorful Heian-Period costumes. Also see my video at YouTube.

Held annually on Jan. 4 at Shimogamo Shrine, Kemari Hajime is a ceremonial and Imperial court-era game of people in a circle kicking a soft, white ball called kemari. Originating in China, it goes back to the Heian Period (794-1185) in Japan. Also see my YouTube video here.

Opened in 2016, Kyoto Railway Museum is a modern makeover of the old Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum that opened in 1972. New exhibition hall shows many modern and classic trains. The main highlight is still the Umekoji steam locomotive roundhouse, perhaps Japan's largest collection of steam locomotives on display. Short bus ride from Kyoto Station.

Originally established in 1202, Kyoto Ebisu Shrine is one of Japan's three biggest Ebisu shrines. The biggest festival of the year is Toka Ebisu, a festival to pray for good business held on Jan. 9-11 (centering on the 10th). The shrine is dedicated to Ebisu, one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, representing business prosperity. These photos were taken on Jan. 10, 2009.

Reconstruction of Fushimi Castle when it was still open to the public from 1964 to 2003. It was a museum about Toyotomi Hideyoshi who built the original Fushimi-Momoyama Castle. This was the main attraction of a small theme park called "Castle Lan."

Opened in 2012, Maizuru Brick Park is a complex of 12 large brick buildings near the Japanese navy base. They were built from 1901 until the 1920s to store munitions (arsenal) for the Imperial Japanese Navy. Eight of them are National Important Cultural Properties and a few of them have been renovated and opened to the public. Hours 9:00 am–5:00 pm, closed Dec. 29–Jan. 1. 15-min. walk from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station (JR Maizuru Line and Obama Line). Parking available.
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/ZuFd1eXrNds

Shoeikan was originally the annex (別館) of the Shoeikan ryokan inn opened in 1904 (Meiji 37). The inn was built for navy VIPs like Admiral Heihachiro Togo who led the Japanese navy during the Russo-Japanese War.
The ryokan's annex building was left unused and decrepit for many years and was on the verge of being torn down until a citizens group got together to clean, renovate, and preserve the building. They finally decided to make it a Western-style restaurant serving navy cuisine. It just opened on Oct. 11, 2018.
Hours
Lunch: 11:30–14:30 Dinner: 17:30–21:30

Picturesque waterfront fishing neighborhood with boats moored right outside. Fishing village since the Edo Period. The homes used to have built-in boat garages like at Ine, but they were abolished and the boats are moored right in front instead. Located on the north end of Isazu River (伊佐津川). "Yoshihara" means reed fields, so this area used to have reed beds on marshy land. About 20-min. walk from JR Nishi-Maizuru Station (JR Maizuru Line). Map here

Amanohashidate is northern Kyoto's main attraction and very famous as one of Japan's Scenic Trio (Nihon Sankei 日本三景). The other two in the scenic trio are Miyajima (vermillion torii and shrine on the ocean) in Hiroshima and Matsushima (pine tree islands) near Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. It's about 3.6 km long, totally flat, and you can cross it on foot or by bicycle (rentals available) on a dirt road in the middle. The road is lined with thousands of Japanese pine trees and closed to vehicular traffic. Near Amanohashidate Station.

Visitors to Amanohashidate can hardly miss Chionji Temple right next to the entrance of Amanohashidate at the southern end. Since you're there, might as well also see the temple especially when you see the large temple gate. Belonging to the Rinzai Zen Sect, the temple worships the Manjushri bodhisattva (Monju Bosatsu) for wisdom and academic abilities. Many students pray here. The elegant Tahoto Pagoda is an Important Cultural Property. The temple is not affiliated with Chion-in Temple in Kyoto city.
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/Anjk19rRLzT2
http://www.monjudo-chionji.jp/

Byodo-in is one of Japan's most famous Buddhist temples. It's the one on the back of the ¥10 coin. It completed major renovations in 2012-14. Belongs jointly to the Tendai and Jodo-shu Sects. Near JR Uji Station on the JR Nara Line and Keihan Uji Station on the Keihan Dentetsu Uji Line. A full-size replica of the Phoenix Hall is also on Oahu, Hawaii.

Manpukuji (萬福寺) is a large temple complex and headquarters of a Chinese Zen sect (Obaku-shu). It's one of the Big Three Zen sects in Japan (besides Soto and Rinzai). The founder was Chinese Zen master Yinyuan Longqi (Ingen) from Fujien Province in China who came to Japan via Nagasaki in 1654.

In the 15th century, Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and Yoshinaga loved Uji tea so much that they designated seven tea fields in Uji as the Seven Reknown Tea Fields (七名園). Today only Okunoyama Chaen (奥ノ山茶園) remains. This tea field was taken over by Horii Shichimeien now operated by 6th-generation owner Chotaro Horii. Only part of the original Okunoyama Chaen remains as a tea field. Horii also has a tea shop selling some of Japan's finest tea.

In 1738, Nagatani Soen basically invented sencha green tea by using a kneading process for young tea leaves. He used a hot drying plate called hoiro to knead the steamed tea buds by hand to dry them. The process is called aosei sencha seiho. It produced excellent color, aroma, and taste of sencha tea. He taught his technique to anybody who flocked to his home. It spread nationwide and his basic technique is still in wide use today. His birthplace house is a replica in Yuyadani, Ujitawara. Open only on Sat. and Sun.

Wazuka (pop. 4,226 as of Feb. 2016) is a small town in southern Kyoto with about 301 tea farmers. Blessed with rolling hills and clear streams, Wazuka produces about 40 percent of Kyoto's Uji tea production. Wazuka is most suited for tea cultivation because there is a large temperature difference between night and day. Fog thereby forms over the tea plants to shade them from the strong sunlight. Tea plants also grow best in well-drained soil, hence the tea plants on sloping land. The highest quality tea is produced. One of Wazuka's most scenic tea fields is at an area called Ishitera. Steep hills covered with tea bushes.

Chirimen Road/Kaido is a Tango chirimen manufacturing area in Kaya. Since it was a castle town (during the Sengoku Warring States Period), a few streets have sharp, narrow turns or corners to defend against any invading enemies. Some of the traditional homes were built in the 19th century or 1920s-30s. Part of the district escaped damage from the 1927 Tango earthquake.

On the Chirimen Road, we can enter the former Bito Family Merchant's House. The Bito family was a raw silk and chirimen wholesaler since the Edo Period. Very prominent and rich local family who also became active in local government and business during the Meiji Period.

Officially called Ueno Castle and nicknamed Hakuho Castle, Iga-Ueno Castle is a reconstructed castle in Ueno Park. Noted for cherry blossoms in April and the highest castle walls in Japan. Conveniently located near the Ninja House.

Iga-Ueno is best known for ninja. In Ueno Park, you will find the Iga-ryu Ninja House and Museum catering to hordes of tourists. They also offer a ninja show for 200 yen. The Iga-Ueno Ninja Festa is also held during April when many tourists dress up as ninja and walk around the city.

Iga is the birthplace of Matsuo Basho (1644-1694), and the house where he grew up in still stands. It is open to the public as a tourist attraction not far from Ueno Park. The house was rebuilt after it being damaged by a large earthquake in 1854. The house includes his study called Chogetsuken study where he wrote Kai-ooi series of poems.

Geku is Ise Jingu's Outer Shrine (officially named "Toyouke Daijingu"). It is one of the two main shrines of Ise Jingu. Geku worships the god Toyouke Omikami, who is responsible for the food of Amaterasu Omikami worshipped at Naiku. She is also the kami for food, clothing, and shelter. Geku was founded about 1,500 years ago. According to tradition, you first visit Geku, then you visit Naiku or Inner Shrine. I visited Ise Jingu Shrine on New Year's Day on Jan. 1, 2013. I noticed that Geku was not as crowded as the more popular Naiku.

Ise Jingu Shrine's Naiku (Inner Shrine) is the main and most popular shrine at Ise. Officially named, "Kotaijingu." It worships Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestor of the Imperial Family and the tutelary kami of the Japanese people. Naiku was founded 2000 years ago. The shrine is rebuilt every 20 years and 2013 will mark the completion of the new shrine to replace the old one built in 1993. Ise Jingu's main shrine is Naiku (Inner Shrine) which I visited on Jan. 1, 2013. It was much more crowded than Geku (Outer Shrine). Also see my video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjbGtgBbQfI

One of Japan's most famous views is these two rocks in the ocean bonded together by heavy shimenawa ropes. The rope is replaced three times a year. One of the days is May 5, when these pictures were taken. Near Futaminoura Station.

Noted for cherry blossoms, Kyuka Park is on the site of Kuwana Castle which was occupied by Honda Tadakatsu. Adjacent to the park is the Kuwana-juku post town on the Tokaido Road that welcomed visitors after they crossed the ocean (Shichiri-no-watashi) from Miya-juku in Aichi.

Toba Castle site is on a small hilltop overlooking Mikimoto Pearl Island. Only a few stone walls and a well remain. No buildings. It was once the administrative center for the Toba Domain. The last occupants was the Inagaki Clan. Shiroyama Park is also gives nice views of the pearl island. Short walk from Toba Station.

Held on the first weekend of April (except April 1st and 2nd), the Oyashiro Festival's main event is the Ageuma ceremony when six teenage boys gallop on horses to leap up a steep incline. The Ageuma is unique to Mie Prefecture. Also see my YouTube video here.

One of Japan's Scenic Trio (Nihon Sankei 日本三景) along with Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Miyajima in Hiroshima, Matsushima is one of Japan's most famous tourist spots. It is a group of scenic pine-clad islands in Matsushima Bay, often having fantastic shapes. Besides the islands, there is much more at Matsushima with important temples such as Zuiganji temple and numerous caves. An easy train ride from Sendai, Matsushima sees and endless stream of tourists.

One of the Big Three Summer Festivals in the Tohoku region, the Sendai Tanabata Matsuri is Japan's largest, grandest, and most famous Tanabata Festival. Held annually during Aug. 6-8 in Sendai's major shopping arcades festooned with huge and colorful streamers. This is the grand daddy of all Tanabata Festivals in Japan and easily ranked as one of Japan's Top Ten Festivals. I revisited this festival in Aug. 2009 and selected over 250 shots displayed here. Included are shots of the streamers being set up on the first day, Tanabata fireworks, and the evening entertainment. Also see my YouTube video here.

Also called Aobajo or Aoba Castle, Sendai Castle was the home and administrative center of the Date clan starting with warlord Date Masamune who built the castle in 1601. Due to wartime bombing, no original buildings remain. Only the Waki-yagura turret was reconstructed in 1965. The castle site is on Aobayama, a hill overlooking downtown Sendai. A large statue of Masamune, various monuments, and a shrine now occupy the Honmaru site.

One of Japan's largest wasabi farms is a tourist attraction. Clean water from the mountains provide an ideal environment to grow wasabi. Short car ride from JR Hotaka Station (JR Oito Line) which is 30 min. from Matsumoto Station.

In early April 2004, the Kami-sha Shrine held the Yamadashi ceremony where they hauled logs from the alpine forest. Along the way, they held the dramatic Ki-otoshi (log drop) down a slope and river crossing. These pictures were taken on April 3, 2004 by Jacek Kostrzewski. Also see photos of Shimo-sha Yamadashi.

Oguchi Taro is one of Okaya's most honored sons. Best known for writing the song "Biwako Shuko no Uta" (Lake Biwa Rowing Song). A monument dedicated to him and his song is on the shore of Lake Suwa. Also see the video at YouTube.

Tsurumine Park is a large park (19,498 sq. meters) on a small hill with abundant azalea bushes. The azaleas were first planted in 1935 when three truckloads of azalea bushes from Kawaguchi, Saitama were brought over and planted. It is the Chubu region's largest azalea park. Azalea is Okaya's official flower.

The Okaya International Exchange Association held its 15th anniversary festival on March 4, 2007. A great line-up of international entertainment attracted hundreds of people. The English version of "Biwako Shuko no Uta" (Lake Biwa Rowing Song) was also sung for the first time in public outside Shiga Prefecture.

Held once every 6 years by the Suwa Taisha Shrine, the Onbashira-sai Matsuri is held in two parts. In early April, the Yamadashi is when the logs are hauled from the mountain forest to a resting place called Shimekake. Along the way, the log is slid down a slope (with men riding it) for the festival's most dramatic event called Ki-otoshi (Log Drop). These photos were taken on April 10, 2004 for the Shimo-sha Shrine's Yamadashi.

During May 8-10, 2004, the logs were ceremoniously hauled to the Shimo-sha Shrines and with great fanfare erected at the four corners of both the Harunomiya and Akinomiya Shrines. A parade was also held. These photos were taken during this three-day period. Also see my video at YouTube here and here too.

Originally built in 1598 by Hineno Takayoshi and later occupied by the Suwa Clan for 270 years, this castle has a tower reconstructed in 1970. It was nicknamed the Floating Castle as it appeared to float on the lake and surrounding rivers.

Ueda Castle was the base of the Sanada Clan who defended the castle against the Tokugawa in 1585 and 1600. In 2016, due to the popular NHK TV Taiga Drama series about Sanada, Ueda Castle has attracted many more tourists.

The world-famous, hot spring-loving snow monkeys in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture must be Japan's most photographed wild animals. "The only place in the world where monkeys bathe in hot springs." They live in the mountains in a valley named Jigokudani (Hell Valley). A snow monkey park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) was established for them in 1964 where the park operator feeds the monkeys and maintains a hot spring (onsen) bath for them. Although winter (with snow) is the most popular time to see the monkeys, the park is open year round (9 am – 4 pm).

Shibu Onsen is a hot spring resort with many inns where you can stopover and relax in a variety of hot spring baths. Shibu Onsen is also where most people stay when visiting the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Yaen Koen monkey park. Adjacent to Shibu Onsen is Yudanaka Onsen, another hot spring town that is seamless with Shibu Onsen.

Japan's most famous temple, with the world's oldest wooden buildings (over 1,300 years old), is also the country's first World Heritage Site. Also called Ikaruga-dera, the temple is the headquarters of the Shotoku-shu Buddhist Sect founded by Shotoku Taishi.

On the Sunday before the second Monday of Jan., 33 hectares of a hill called Wakakusa-yama next to Nara Park is burned at night. The burning hill looks more spectacular from afar, but we went up close.

Every evening during March 1-14, Todaiji temple priests carry torches on the balcony of Nigatsu-do Hall. Sparks falling from the torches bring good health. Tripods are not allowed in the viewing area. On March 12, the festival climaxes with sacred water drawn from a spring. However, there is not much to see for the average tourist. Only huge crowds of pilgrims that day. Also see the video at YouTube.

In 2010, Nara celebrated the 1300th anniversary of Heijo-kyo Capital with the Heijo Palace site serving as the main venue. Various events, entertainment, and activities were offered for almost free. Also see my video at YouTube. And another one here.

Man-made lake where thousands of swans and ducks migrate to during the winter months. Swans have been coming here since 1950. During the day, they feed on harvested rice paddies. The bird has become a symbol of the city. In Oct. 2008, Lake Hyoko or Lake Hyo was added to the list of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Also see my YouTube video here.

Yoshida Togo was a famous geographer of Japan who compiled an encylopedia of Japanese place names. His son was Yoshida Chiaki who composed the melody of the song "Biwako Shuko no Uta" (Lake Biwa Rowing Song). His birth home is open for public viewing and adjacent to it is a memorial museum.

Toki Messe is a multipurpose complex which includes a convention center, exhibition hall, hotel and office tower (the city's tallest building), art museum, and an observation deck on the 31st floor for great views of the city.

A large Japanese-style house built in the late 19th century, converted into a museum. Formerly the estate of the Ito farming family who owned large tracts of land in Niigata. After the war, the estate was saved by Lieutenant Ralph E. White, a US soldier from the Occupation Forces. Museum Web site here.

Completed around 1654, this is the only castle in Niigata with Edo-Era structures still remaining. Two turrets were reconstructed in June 2004. The castle grounds is also occupied by the Ground Self-Defence Forces, making the area open to the public quite small. One of the reconstructed turrets is also inaccessible due to the military base. Still, it is one of Japan's 100 Famous Castles.

Japan's most famous stone buddhas were designated National Treasures. The most famous Buddha head, which was long detached from its body, was reattached in March 1994. These pictures were taken before the reattachment.

Adjacent to Okayama Castle, Korakuen is one of Japan's three most famous gardens along with Kairakuen in Mito, Ibaraki and Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, Ishikawa. Korakuen was completed in 1700 after 14 years of construction.